QSR magazine - Jimmy John'shttp://www.qsrmagazine.com/category/chains/jimmy-johns
enThe Proof is in the Pizzahttp://www.qsrmagazine.com/outside-insights/proof-pizza
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>Picture this: You’re trying to decide where to go for dinner. You’re stuck between two new restaurants. One has a line out the door; the other looks deserted. Which do you choose?</p>
<p>Chances are, unless you’re in a rush, you pick the one with the line out the door. If that many people like it, it must be good, right? If everyone wants it, it has to have some merit. In fact, you almost need<em> </em>to try it.</p>
<p>This is social proof—the grown-up version of peer pressure and the core of FOMO (the fear of missing out).</p>
<p>It’s human nature to want to belong and participate in what’s popular. We see the things we have and do as projections of ourselves, so we naturally want to make the “right” choices. FOMO has become something of a joke in our culture, but it’s a real thing, a form of social anxiety that makes us fear we’re missing out on an opportunity to fit in.</p>
<p>This “wisdom of the crowds” mentality comes into play in the restaurant industry in a very literal way.</p>
<p>Unless it’s a tourist trap or located just below the Eiffel Tower, people generally don’t wait in lines for no reason. That means social proof has a heavy hand in determining the success—or failure—of your restaurant.</p>
<p>Social proof lends credibility and desirability to restaurant delivery. Here are three reasons why:</p>
<p><strong>1. Meaning en masse. </strong>By demonstrating popularity and quality, having multiple drivers in line waiting for food is the equivalent of an in-restaurant wait. The only difference is that customers are home on their couches—that’s the convenience factor they’re paying for. If restaurants don’t have drivers waiting for food, it’s a giveaway that no one is ordering delivery.</p>
<div class="pullout2">An active, present, and professional delivery staff speaks volumes to potential customers about your business’s culture, polish, and professionalism.</div>
<p><strong>2. Visual branding fuel. </strong>Some delivery services use heavily branded vehicle wraps and uniforms to amplify their brands. When branded vehicles are parked outside a restaurant, it’s a visible sign of a restaurant’s popularity. The fact that a restaurant is in demand makes it desirable.</p>
<p><strong>3. The power of social. </strong>A delivery service is the in-home or in-office extension of a restaurant. Customers can review their food at the time of delivery, just like the person at the restaurant can—but it’s from the comfort of their homes. It’s important that the service and the restaurant work together to provide an excellent in-home experience of their food. Social proof leads to peer reviews online, both of the service and the restaurant, and nothing is more powerful than a friend’s recommendation (or critique).</p>
<p>Social proof is vital to attract business to a restaurant, but generating that proof for delivery can be trickier. Here are three ways to amplify social proof for delivery:</p>
<p><strong>1. Deck out your delivery fleets.</strong> You get no credit or social proof for providing a great delivery experience if you don’t identify yourself. Use distinctive cars and vehicle skins so consumers will see them while walking around. Vehicle signage clearly communicates your business, and potential customers understand that they could be among hundreds or thousands served every day. People want to be part of something new and exciting. This is a powerful visual reminder of your company’s core competency and popularity.</p>
<p><strong>2. Make it shareable.</strong> Food is an inherently social thing. Conversations, laughter, and disagreements all happen over food. Additionally, the quality of these things depends on the quality of the meal. So whether or not you like your food is instantly shareable. With today’s accessibility to social media, everyone is a food critic. If you see that a friend on Facebook has tried a new restaurant but hated it, chances are you’ll skip right over it. But if a glowing review pops up, you’ll probably make a point to try it, right? Today, social proof trumps critics’ reviews.</p>
<p><strong>3. Be selective about your staff.</strong> An active, present, and professional delivery staff speaks volumes to potential customers about your business’s culture, polish, and professionalism. The staff you choose and the brand values you instill are just as important as the branding on your advertisements and uniforms.</p>
<p>Domino’s and Jimmy John’s are great examples of restaurants that have done this well. Both are social media driven and have a professional, recognizable team of uniformed drivers. They also pride themselves on quick, reliable delivery, from Jimmy John’s “freaky fast” service to Domino’s “delivery experts.”</p>
<p>Whether your call it FOMO or social proof, chances are you’d try the restaurant with the line out the door over the less popular option. This desire to align with group approval is innate and human, and it’s something you share with your customers on a biological level. By tapping into this desire, you can create social proof for your restaurant that drums up traffic from even the most reluctant of restaurant-goers.</p>
<div class="author">Phil Dumontet is the founder and CEO of DASHED, a restaurant delivery service in the Northeast. Phil prides himself on the company’s industry-leading delivery times, unique partnerships with higher-end restaurants, and commitment to keeping delivery green.</div>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-issuenum field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">June 2014</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>Social proof could be reason enough to invest more in a delivery operation.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://www.qsrmagazine.com/sites/qsrmagazine.com/files/styles/storyimage/public/oi1.jpg?itok=j7jAnUoV" width="234" height="192" alt="Fast food restaurants can maximize delivery service to hook customers." title="Fast food restaurants can maximize delivery service to hook customers." /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-image-credit field-type-text-long field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Image Credit:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">thinkstock</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tio field-type-list-text field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Teaser Image Orientation:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Left</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-7 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Other Kickers:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/technology/ordering">Ordering</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/other-kickers/technology/promotions">Promotions</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/operations/competition">Competition</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-2 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Kicker:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/operations/outside-insights">Outside Insights</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-3 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Microsites:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/pizza">Pizza</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-5 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Authors:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/authors/guest-author">Guest Author</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-4 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Chains:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/dominos">Domino&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/jimmy-johns">Jimmy John&#039;s</a></div></div></div>Fri, 20 Jun 2014 04:35:41 +0000erica77646 at http://www.qsrmagazine.comNew Study Reveals America’s Favorite Quick-Service Chainshttp://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/new-study-reveals-america-s-favorite-quick-service-chains
<div class="field field-name-field-exclusive-brief field-type-list-boolean field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">no</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://www.qsrmagazine.com/sites/qsrmagazine.com/files/styles/storyimage/public/news/new-study-reveals-america-s-favorite-quick-service-restaurants.jpg?itok=lUs0Q6WV" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-image-caption field-type-text-long field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Image Caption:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Pizza segment rankings from Market Force Information survey.</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-image-credit field-type-text-long field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Image Credit:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Market Force Information</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>With new limited-service brands emerging at a rapid pace, consumers have more dining choices than ever, and their preferences are proving that established national concepts could learn a thing or two from these smaller, younger chains. According to a nationwide study on consumers’ favorite quick-service chains from Market Force Information, brands like Firehouse Subs, Qdoba, and Papa Murphy’s rank better for customer satisfaction compared to more established category players like Subway, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut.</p>
<p>The Market Force Information Study polled more than 6,100 consumers who were asked to rank the top restaurants in four popular categories: pizza, Mexican fare, sandwiches, and chicken. “We then ask respondents to rate their last experience at a given brand and let us know if they would recommend eating there, and we use that data to rate each brand,” says Janet Eden-Harris, CMO and senior vice president of strategy at Market Force Information. In addition to ranking restaurants consumers favor most, the study looks at what contributes to these preferences, analyzing factors such as service, food quality, and value.</p>
<p>In the chicken segment, Louisiana-based Raising Cane’s topped the list, followed by Chick-fil-A and Zaxby’s, and all top three chains scored best for food quality. In the sandwich category, Firehouse Subs ranked No. 1 and was the favorite for friendly service and accommodating children, also taking second place in quality food and atmosphere. Panera Bread ranked No. 2 overall, followed by Jimmy John’s and Subway. In the Mexican segment, Qdoba beat out Chipotle, coming in as No. 1 overall—respondents pinpointed the brand for its varied menu items, including specialty burritos and a three-cheese queso sauce.</p>
<p>Eden-Harris says the rankings reflect how newer and smaller brands are offering consumers something new. “The value of having a tried-and-true brand is that consumers know and can count on what they’re getting. But it terms of driving big satisfaction, you have to go above the basics, and a lot of these new, emerging brands are mixing it up,” she says. “Qdoba lets you pick and customize, so a consumer knows they will like what they get. A lot of these emerging brands have a new take on their categories.”</p>
<p>The pizza category rankings were particularly interesting, Eden-Harris says. Take-and-bake concept Papa Murphy’s came in at No. 1 overall and was rated first for both quality and healthy food and second in fast service and value.</p>
<p>“It’s interesting to see how Papa Murphy’s has risen to the top—they were there when we did this study last time a little more than a year ago,” Eden-Harris says. “You start to see some of the brands that do particularly well on a couple key attributes, and we see it across categories—we call these operational excellence attributes. It’s things like having fast service, having friendly service, offering a warm atmosphere, or healthy food changes.”</p>
<p>Pizza Ranch came in second overall for the category, followed by Papa John’s, Cici’s Pizza, Domino’s, and Pizza Hut. Pizza Ranch received the most votes for atmosphere and accommodating children, and CiCi’s was second in both categories. The fastest service went to Little Caesar’s, while CiCi’s took the top spot for value.</p>
<p>“It’s good for people in the business to see these results because a lot of these attributes consumers value are ones [operators] can influence,” Eden-Harris says. “It’s really hard if people were rating higher based on something like a convenient location. You can’t help that, but you can invest in things like training and hiring the right kind of people.”</p>
<p><em>By Tamara Omazic</em></p>
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</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-4 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Chains:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/chick-fil">Chick-fil-A</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/firehouse-subs">Firehouse Subs</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/jimmy-johns">Jimmy John&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/pizza-hut">Pizza Hut</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/qdoba">Qdoba</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/raising-canes">Raising Cane&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/subway">Subway</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/zaxbys">Zaxby&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/papa-murphys">Papa Murphy&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/chipotle">Chipotle</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/cicis-pizza">CiCi&#039;s Pizza</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/papa-johns-0">Papa John&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/dominos">Domino&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/pizza-ranch">Pizza Ranch</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-3 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Microsites:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/loyalty">Loyalty</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/microsites/pizza">Pizza</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-7 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Other Kickers:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/operations/consumer-trends">Consumer Trends</a></div></div></div>Thu, 01 May 2014 16:17:55 +0000tamara76016 at http://www.qsrmagazine.comJimmy John’s, Chipotle Ranked Among Fastest-Growing Chainshttp://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/jimmy-john-s-chipotle-ranked-among-fastest-growing-chains
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://www.qsrmagazine.com/sites/qsrmagazine.com/files/styles/storyimage/public/news/jimmy-john039s-chipotle-ranked-among-fastest-growing-restaurants.jpg?itok=plMwKWs-" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p style="margin-bottom: 0in"><span lang="en-US" xml:lang="en-US">The list of the fastest-growing retailers this year tells a story of consumers’ growing affinity for fast-fashion, specialty grocery items, and apparel. STORES Hot 100 Retailers list, published annually in the August issue of STORES magazine, consists of retail companies that reported the greatest increase in domestic sales between 2011 and 2012. All public and private companies with more than $300 million in sales were eligible for the list, which was compiled by Kantar Retail.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in">“<span lang="en-US" xml:lang="en-US">With the worst of the recession behind us, retail has dramatically changed the way it responds to customers’ complex needs and wants,” says STORES media editor Susan Reda. “Today’s fastest-growing companies recognize shoppers’ desire for a relevant and personalized shopping experience and deliver products that speak to their unique sensibilities when it comes to lifestyle and fashion.”</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in">Jacksonville-based Bi-Lo tops the list following the acquisition of the remnants of the Winn-Dixie chain in 2011. Indicative of a condensing grocery market and a growth in specialty grocery stores, Sprouts Farmers Market (3) and The Fresh Market (10) also placed in the top 10 this year.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in">With plans to increase its store footprint in China and the U.S. in the coming years and with a full e-commerce launch imminent, No. 8 H&amp;M joined the Hot 100 list for the first time. Sales at U.S. stores increased 20.7 percent from 2011, and the number of operating domestic stores increased 15.5 percent during that time as well.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in">Specialty apparel continues to heat up in the retail industry. With revenue increasing 63.2 percent from 2011, Michael Kors comes in at No. 2, up one spot from last year. lululemon athletica (4) and Under Armour (5), also known for their loyal fan bases and unique product offerings, mostly maintained their spots in the top 10 from last year.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in">Helzberg Diamond Shops climbed the Hot 100 list from No. 60 last year to No. 9 this year.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"><span lang="en-US" xml:lang="en-US">Apple Stores/iTunes (5) and Amazon.com (7) round out the top 10.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in">"This year's Hot 100 features a series of retailers selling broad based solutions that resonate emotionally with shoppers," says Kantar retail chief knowledge officer Bryan Gildenberg. "Either through specialized expertise in stores like lululemon and Under Armour or by ease of access to a wide variety of products like Amazon, retailers are going beyond function to a more emotional connection as the key to rapid growth."</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"><span lang="en-US" xml:lang="en-US">10 Companies Demonstrate “Sustained Sizzle”</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in">Smart merchandising, stellar customer service, expansion efforts and a cornering of a niche market have helped 10 retail companies maintain a place on the Hot 100 list each of the past eight years.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"><span lang="en-US" xml:lang="en-US">Companies that have managed to stay hot include (rank based on average annual growth):</span></p>
<p>• Amazon.com (7)<br />
• Ascena Retail Group (70)<br />
• O’Reilly Automotive (81)<br />
• Urban Outfitters (28)<br />
• J.Crew (11)<br />
• Tractor Supply Co. (46)<br />
• Dick’s Sporting Goods (32)<br />
• Dollar Tree (37)<br />
• Ross Stores (27)<br />
• PetSmart (41)</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"><span lang="en-US" xml:lang="en-US">List Evaluates Fastest-Growing Restaurants</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in"> </p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in">Separate from the fastest-growing retail companies, the Hot 100 list evaluates the fastest-growing restaurants. The top 10 in order of sales growth are:</p>
<p>• Jimmy John’s<br />
• Cheddar’s Casual Cafe<br />
• Buffalo Wild Wings<br />
• Chipotle Mexican Grill<br />
• Panda Restaurant Group (Panda Express)<br />
• Noodles &amp; Company<br />
• Zaxby’s Franchising<br />
• Wingstop Restaurants<br />
• BJ’s Restaurants<br />
• Chick-fil-A</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-7 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Other Kickers:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/operations/store">In the Store</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/other-kickers/operations/outside-insights">Outside Insights</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/expansion/growth">Growth</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-3 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Microsites:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/finance">Finance</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-4 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Chains:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/chick-fil">Chick-fil-A</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/jimmy-johns">Jimmy John&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/panda-express">Panda Express</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/wingstop">Wingstop</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/zaxbys">Zaxby&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/chipotle">Chipotle</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/noodles-co-0">Noodles &amp; Co.</a></div></div></div>Thu, 01 Aug 2013 18:00:00 +0000marlee64711 at http://www.qsrmagazine.comThe QSR 50 Sandwich Segmenthttp://www.qsrmagazine.com/reports/qsr50-2013-sandwich-segment-breakdown
<div class="field field-name-field-issuenum field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">August 2013</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-short field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">The top sandwich brands in quick service.</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>The top sandwich brands in quick service.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://www.qsrmagazine.com/sites/qsrmagazine.com/files/styles/storyimage/public/reports/qsr-50-sandwich-segment.jpg?itok=OfBEglRQ" width="232" height="190" alt="The top quick service and fast casual sandwich brands in the United States." title="The top quick service and fast casual sandwich brands in the United States." /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tio field-type-list-text field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Teaser Image Orientation:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Left</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><div id="quick">
<div class="main">
<div><a href="/reports/qsr50-2013">Read the Profiles</a></div>
<div><a href="/reports/qsr50-2013-top-50-chart">Browse the Big Chart</a></div>
<div><a href="http://www.qsrmagazine.com/downloads/146">See QSR 50 Charts 2004-2012</a></div>
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<div class="red">Segments</div>
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<li><a href="/reports/qsr50-2013-burger-segment-breakdown">Burger</a></li>
<li><a href="/reports/qsr50-2013-sandwich-segment-breakdown">Sandwich</a></li>
<li><a href="/reports/qsr50-2013-snack-segment-breakdown">Snack</a></li>
<li><a href="/reports/qsr50-2013-mexican-segment-breakdown">Mexican</a></li>
</ul>
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<li><a href="/reports/qsr50-2013-pizza-segment-breakdown">Pizza/Pasta</a></li>
<li><a href="/reports/qsr50-2013-chicken-segment-breakdown">Chicken</a></li>
<li><a href="/reports/qsr50-2013-asian-segment-breakdown">Asian</a></li>
<li><a href="/reports/qsr50-2013-seafood-segment-breakdown">Seafood</a></li>
</ul>
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</div><p>In 2012, Chick-fil-A surpassed KFC to become the best-selling chicken chain, Jimmy John&rsquo;s and Five Guys joined the billion-dollar-brands club, and fast-growing Wingstop and Moe&rsquo;s Southwest Grill climbed into the limited-service industry&rsquo;s upper echelon for the first time. McDonald&rsquo;s, meanwhile, maintained its stranglehold on the No. 1 position, nearly tripling runner-up Subway&rsquo;s domestic sales. Dig deep into the data driving the quick-service and fast-casual restaurant industries with this year&rsquo;s QSR 50.</p>
<div class="sortable">Click column headers to sort</div>
<table id="datatable">
<tbody>
<tr class="odd"><td class="header"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1078/feed?sort=rank&amp;dir=desc#chart" class="active">Rank</a><img src="http://www.qsrmagazine.com/misc/arrow-asc.png" width="13" height="13" alt="sort ascending" title="sort ascending" /></td><td class="header"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1078/feed?sort=qsr_50_rank&amp;dir=asc#chart" class="active">QSR 50 Rank</a></td><td class="header"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1078/feed?sort=chain&amp;dir=asc#chart" class="active">Company/Chain Name</a></td><td class="header"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1078/feed?sort=2012_sales&amp;dir=desc#chart" class="active">2012 U.S. Systemwide Sales (Millions)</a></td><td class="header"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1078/feed?sort=2012_avg_sales&amp;dir=desc#chart" class="active">2012 U.S. Average Sales per Unit (thousands)</a></td><td class="header"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1078/feed?sort=2012_franchise_units&amp;dir=desc#chart" class="active">Number of Franchised Units in 2012</a></td><td class="header"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1078/feed?sort=2012_company_units&amp;dir=desc#chart" class="active">Number of Company Units in 2012</a></td><td class="header"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1078/feed?sort=2012_total_units&amp;dir=desc#chart" class="active">Total Units in 2012</a></td><td class="header"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1078/feed?sort=2011_unit_change&amp;dir=desc#chart" class="active">Total Change in Units from 2011</a></td> </tr>
<tr class="even"><td class="rank sorted">1</td><td class="qsr_50_rank">2</td><td class="chain">Subway<sup>*</sup></td><td class="2012_sales">$12,100.0</td><td class="2012_avg_sales">$481.0</td><td class="2012_franchise_units">25,549</td><td class="2012_company_units">0</td><td class="2012_total_units">25,549</td><td class="2011_unit_change">956</td> </tr>
<tr class="odd"><td class="rank sorted">2</td><td class="qsr_50_rank">11</td><td class="chain">Panera Bread</td><td class="2012_sales">$3,861.0</td><td class="2012_avg_sales">$2,427.2</td><td class="2012_franchise_units">843</td><td class="2012_company_units">809</td><td class="2012_total_units">1,652</td><td class="2011_unit_change">111</td> </tr>
<tr class="even"><td class="rank sorted">3</td><td class="qsr_50_rank">15</td><td class="chain">Arby's</td><td class="2012_sales">$2,992.0</td><td class="2012_avg_sales">$993.2</td><td class="2012_franchise_units">2,343</td><td class="2012_company_units">1,011</td><td class="2012_total_units">3,354</td><td class="2011_unit_change">-83</td> </tr>
<tr class="odd"><td class="rank sorted">4</td><td class="qsr_50_rank">25</td><td class="chain">Jimmy John's</td><td class="2012_sales">$1,262.8</td><td class="2012_avg_sales">$878.8</td><td class="2012_franchise_units">1,534</td><td class="2012_company_units">26</td><td class="2012_total_units">1,560</td><td class="2011_unit_change">229</td> </tr>
<tr class="even"><td class="rank sorted">5</td><td class="qsr_50_rank">32</td><td class="chain">Quiznos<sup>*</sup></td><td class="2012_sales">$838.0</td><td class="2012_avg_sales">$345.0</td><td class="2012_franchise_units">2,349</td><td class="2012_company_units">4</td><td class="2012_total_units">2,353</td><td class="2011_unit_change">50</td> </tr>
<tr class="odd"><td class="rank sorted">6</td><td class="qsr_50_rank">39</td><td class="chain">Jason's Deli</td><td class="2012_sales">$578.9</td><td class="2012_avg_sales">$2,556.4</td><td class="2012_franchise_units">101</td><td class="2012_company_units">144</td><td class="2012_total_units">245</td><td class="2011_unit_change">10</td> </tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div class="author">*Includes figures estimated by Technomic Inc.</div></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-5 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Authors:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/authors/sam-oches">Sam Oches</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-4 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Chains:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/jasons-deli">Jason&#039;s Deli</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/jimmy-johns">Jimmy John&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/panera-bread">Panera Bread</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/quiznos">Quiznos</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/subway">Subway</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/arbys">Arby&#039;s</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-7 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Other Kickers:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/food-beverage/ingredients-dayparts">Ingredients &amp; Dayparts</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/other-kickers/expansion/qsr-50">QSR 50</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/expansion/franchising">Franchising</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/other-kickers/expansion/growth">Growth</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/expansion/fast-casual">Fast Casual</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/other-kickers/expansion/emerging-concepts">Emerging Concepts</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/operations/competition">Competition</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/other-kickers/operations/consumer-trends">Consumer Trends</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-3 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Microsites:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/sandwiches">Sandwiches</a></div></div></div>Mon, 29 Jul 2013 10:03:44 +0000tory64126 at http://www.qsrmagazine.comMillenial Consumers Rank Their Top Chainshttp://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/millenial-consumers-rank-their-top-chains
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://www.qsrmagazine.com/sites/qsrmagazine.com/files/styles/storyimage/public/news/millenial-consumers-rank-their-top-chains.jpeg?itok=ccYKK8mZ" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-image-credit field-type-text-long field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Image Credit:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Ling &amp; Louie&#039;s</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>Millennials are unique. They communicate differently, are self-expressive, confident, liberal, upbeat, and open to change. But marketing to them can be a challenge.</p>
<p>This group (ages 19-34) has a distinct perspective on dining occasions, placing more value on attributes like social responsibility, sustainability, local, and organic, grass-fed, and hormone-free offerings. They foster emotional connections to brands and their loyalty stems beyond experience. </p>
<p>“Millennials visit restaurants more frequently than any other generation,” says Darren Tristano, Technomic EVP. “Restaurant operators are making consistent efforts to track the purchasing habits of Millennials and appeal to their unique need states. Success with today’s Millennial consumer will depend on making an emotional connection and setting expectations.” </p>
<p>Technomic is helping restaurants and foodservice suppliers understand and respond to Millennials' dining preferences with two offerings.</p>
<p>A new in-depth study for suppliers, <a href="http://technomic.tm00.com/r/EHp2gVLv1hpIE69KLf.htm">Understanding the Foodservice Attitudes and Behaviors of Millennials</a>, provides extensive consumer and operator insights across restaurant and non-commercial accounts, in addition to operators' best practices and unmet needs. Suppliers who join the study prior to launch also receive operator and consumer feedback on their top three product categories.</p>
<p>Technomic's already-available <a href="http://technomic.tm00.com/r/nT8K7JXE6f8ZnljbXQ.htm">Consumer Restaurant Brand Metrics</a> program provides chains with a scorecard to benchmark performance against their peers and track results over time. Among 50 dimensions evaluated by the program, Millennials gave top marks to the following chains, by segment, on three highly valued attributes.<br />
<br /><strong>Top-Ranking Chains on Three Dimensions Valued by Millennial Consumers, by</strong><strong><strong> Segment</strong></strong></p>
<p><strong>Social Responsibility</strong> - Acting in a way that is good for the environment, treating employees well.</p>
<p>In-N-Out Burger – Quick Service<br />
McAlister’s Deli – Fast Casual<br />
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store – Family-Style<br />
Logan’s Roadhouse – Casual Dining</p>
<p><strong>Food Quality</strong> - For Millennials, food quality goes beyond taste and visual appeal, also incorporating sourcing elements such as grass-fed and free-range into their quality perception.</p>
<p>Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwich Shop – Quick Service<br />
McAlister’s Deli – Fast Casual<br />
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store – Family-Style<br />
Red Lobster – Casual Dining</p>
<p><strong>Supports local community activities</strong> – Makes charitable contributions, supports community organizations.</p>
<p>Chik-fil-A – Quick Service<br />
Corner Bakery Cafe – Fast Casual<br />
Bob Evans – Family-Style<br />
Bonefish Grill – Casual Dining</p>
<p><span style="font-size:10px;"><em>Source: Technomic Consumer Restaurant Brand Metrics</em></span></p>
<p>These are just three of 50 attributes included in the <a href="http://technomic.tm00.com/r/lCx7eNQ6c0xTlaK4QI.htm">Consumer Restaurant Brand Metrics</a> program, designed to capture consumers' experience from every angle involving service, restaurant cleanliness, atmosphere and ambiance, food, beverages, takeout, value, brand image, advertising effectiveness, and emotional connection.</p>
<p>More than 107 leading restaurant chains are included in the online database, allowing operators to track their performance against competitors on individual attributes, or by region, demographic group, or designated market area.</p>
<p>The consumer feedback is based on ongoing data collection and compiled from a nationally representative sample of more than 40,000 visits annually and 70,000 cumulative by year end.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-7 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Other Kickers:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/operations/consumer-trends">Consumer Trends</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/other-kickers/technology/sustainability">Sustainability</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-3 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Microsites:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/green">Green</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/microsites/loyalty">Loyalty</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-4 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Chains:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/chick-fil">Chick-fil-A</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/jimmy-johns">Jimmy John&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/mcalisters-deli">McAlister&#039;s Deli</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/n-out-burger">In-N-Out Burger</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/corner-bakery-cafe">Corner Bakery Cafe</a></div></div></div>Fri, 11 May 2012 15:13:37 +0000sonya45241 at http://www.qsrmagazine.comUnited Capital Provides $1.9 Million to Jimmy John’s http://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/united-capital-provides-19-million-jimmy-john-s
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>United Capital Business Lending, a national business lender specializing in franchise finance, announced today that it provided $1.9 million in financing to Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches owner, J.T. &amp; Company Investments, LLC.</p>
<p>United Capital refinanced six existing locations for the Florida-based franchisee and will also provide funding to open additional Jimmy John’s locations in the Orlando area.</p>
<p>“United Capital recognizes the strong performance of the Jimmy John’s franchise system,” says Trey Grimm, vice president and business development officer for United Capital. “So, we’re pleased to offer its franchisees financing for new store development, acquisitions, and debt refinance.”</p>
<p>United Capital Business Lending is a subsidiary of BankUnited, the largest bank headquartered in Florida, with more than $12 billion in assets.</p>
<p>In addition to Jimmy John’s, the United Capital team has financed franchisees for Subway, Denny’s, Dunkin’ Donuts, Papa John’s Pizza, Five Guys Burgers and Fries, and Buffalo Wild Wings, among others.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-7 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Other Kickers:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/expansion">Expansion</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-3 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Microsites:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/finance">Finance</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/microsites/sandwiches">Sandwiches</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-4 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Chains:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/jimmy-johns">Jimmy John&#039;s</a></div></div></div>Fri, 20 Apr 2012 17:15:32 +0000sonya44326 at http://www.qsrmagazine.comSubway Tops 2011 in Consumer Buzz http://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/subway-tops-2011-consumer-buzz-0
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>YouGov’s BrandIndex looked back at 2011 to determine which U.S. brands had the greatest buzz.</p>
<p>Not only was Subway the 2011 Buzz leader amongst quick-serves, but Subway also had the No. 1 Buzz score amongst the entire BrandIndex universe. Two of the top 5 quick-serve brands, meanwhile, were pizza brands, with Papa John’s at No. 3 and Pizza Hut coming in at No. 4.</p>
<p>The quick-serve sector featured only two brands that improved by more than one point, and the largest improver (McDonald’s) climbed only 1.2 points in 2011, in terms of buzz when compared to 2010.</p>
<p>Some notable events for McDonald’s in 2011 include its McJob’s hiring push, its plan to launch a TV network inside stores with local news and sports, and the national launch of the McRib LTO.</p>
<p>The top Buzz scores in the quick-serve segment in 2011 were:</p>
<ol><li>Subway (41)</li>
<li>Wendy's (26.8)</li>
<li>Papa John's (24.8)</li>
<li>Pizza Hut (23.3)</li>
<li>Chick-Fil-A (20.9)</li>
</ol><p>Subway continued to expand its breakfast and $5 foot-long program in 2011, with the foot-long program rotating a featured sub each month. Subway was the only dining brand to crack the top 10 of the entire YouGov BrandIndex universe of more than 1,100 brands.</p>
<p>The sandwich giant ranked No. 1 in the overall Buzz list in 2011 for the second consecutive year. </p>
<p>McDonald’s had the greatest leap in buzz score between 2011 and 2010, with Hardee’s coming in second, and Jimmy John’s third. The top five jumps in buzz score were as follows:</p>
<ol><li>McDonald's<br />
2011 = 15.8<br />
2010 = 14.6</li>
<li>Hardee's<br />
2011 = 5.6<br />
2010 = 4.6</li>
<li>Jimmy John's<br />
2011 = 6.2<br />
2010 = 5.1</li>
<li>Culver's<br />
2011 = 5.8<br />
2010 = 4.8</li>
<li>Nathan's Famous<br />
2011 = 4.1<br />
2010 = 3.2</li>
</ol><p>YouGov BrandIndex (<a href="http://www.brandindex.com/">www.brandindex.com</a>) conducts the only daily consumer perception research on brands, interviewing 5,000 people each weekday from a representative U.S. population sample, equaling more than 1.2 million interviews per year.</p>
<p>YouGov BrandIndex's measurement scores range from 100 to -100, and are compiled by subtracting negative feedback from positive. A score of zero means equal positive and negative feedback.</p>
<p>All 1,100+ U.S. brands in the YouGov BrandIndex universe were measured using their Buzz score, which asks respondents: "If you've heard anything about the brand in the last two weeks, through advertising, news or word of mouth, was it positive or negative?"</p>
<p>All results are for adults 18 and older.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-7 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Other Kickers:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/operations/competition">Competition</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/other-kickers/operations/consumer-trends">Consumer Trends</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/operations">Operations</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-3 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Microsites:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/loyalty">Loyalty</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/microsites/burgers">Burgers</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/sandwiches">Sandwiches</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/microsites/pizza">Pizza</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-4 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Chains:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/hardees">Hardee&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/jimmy-johns">Jimmy John&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/mcdonalds">McDonald&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/nathans-famous">Nathan&#039;s Famous</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/pizza-hut">Pizza Hut</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/subway">Subway</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/wendys">Wendy&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/papa-johns-0">Papa John&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/culvers">Culver&#039;s</a></div></div></div>Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:33:22 +0000sonya40516 at http://www.qsrmagazine.comUnited Capital Refinances Multi-Unit Subway Operatorhttp://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/united-capital-refinances-multi-unit-subway-operator
<div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>United Capital Business Lending, a subsidiary of BankUnited, announced today that it is providing $1,350,000 in financing to Subwayowner, CCreations LLC. United Capital refinanced eight existing stores for the Indiana-based franchisee, and will also provide funding to relocate and remodel some newly acquired locations. CCreations LLC operates more than 30 Subway restaurants in Indiana and Kentucky.</p>
<p>“United Capital is pleased to support CCreations LLC and Subwayfranchisees nationwide,” says Trey Grimm, vice president and business development officer for United Capital. “We’re committed to providing Subway operators with competitive financing solutions for new store development, acquisitions, remodels, and debt refinancing.”</p>
<p>United Capital Business Lending, which in late 2010 acquired the small business lending operations of Butler Capital, is a subsidiary of BankUnited, the largest bank in Florida with more than $12 billion in assets. United Capital Business Lending now brings the experience of Butler Capital together with the financial strength of BankUnited.</p>
<p>In addition to Subway, the United Capital team has financed franchisees for Burger King, Dunkin’ Donuts, Wendy’s, Denny’s, Five Guys Burgers and Fries, and Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-3 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Microsites:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/finance">Finance</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/microsites/sandwiches">Sandwiches</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/back-office">Back Office</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/microsites/back-house">Back of House</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-4 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Chains:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/burger-king">Burger King</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/dennys">Denny&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/dunkin-donuts">Dunkin&#039; Donuts</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/five-guys">Five Guys</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/jimmy-johns">Jimmy John&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/subway">Subway</a></div><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/wendys">Wendy&#039;s</a></div></div></div>Thu, 10 Nov 2011 14:14:18 +0000sonya38296 at http://www.qsrmagazine.comJimmy Johns Lands $600,000 in Financinghttp://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/jimmy-johns-lands-600000-financing
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://www.qsrmagazine.com/sites/qsrmagazine.com/files/styles/storyimage/public/news/jimmy-johns-lands-600000-financing.jpg?itok=iw4F4SJ-" width="234" height="234" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>United Capital Business Lending, a subsidiary of BankUnited, announced that it is providing $600,000 in financing to Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches owner, Quain Enterprises, LLC.</p>
<p>United Capital refinanced one existing store for the Florida-based franchisee and will also provide funding to open additional Jimmy John’s locations.</p>
<p>United Capital Business Lending, which recently acquired the small business lending operations of Butler Capital, is a subsidiary of BankUnited, the largest bank in Floridawith more than $12 billion in assets. The newly formed United Capital Business Lending now brings the prior experience of Butler Capital together with the financial strength of BankUnited.</p>
<p>“The United Capital team is proud to support the growth of Jimmy John’s franchisees nationwide,” says Trey Grimm, business development officer for United Capital. “As a BankUnited company, United Capital offers competitive financing for new restaurant development, acquisitions, and debt refinance.”</p>
<p>In addition to Jimmy John’s, the United Capital team has financed franchisees for Subway, Burger King, Dunkin’ Donuts, Taco Bell, Checkers, Denny’s, Wing Stop, Five Guys Burgers and Fries, and Buffalo Wild Wings, among others. </p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-7 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Other Kickers:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/other-kickers/expansion/franchising">Franchising</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-3 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Microsites:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/microsites/finance">Finance</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-4 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Chains:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/jimmy-johns">Jimmy John&#039;s</a></div></div></div>Tue, 14 Jun 2011 16:15:00 +0000sonya34296 at http://www.qsrmagazine.comUnion Leaders Aren't Giving Up on Your Crewhttp://www.qsrmagazine.com/store/union-leaders-arent-giving-your-crew
<div class="field field-name-field-short field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Despite struggles, unions still target quick serves.</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>Jimmy John’s boasts more than 1,000 stores nationwide, claiming an army of sandwich makers and delivery drivers that matches that of most of America’s quick-service companies. Last fall, however, overwhelming attention zeroed in on just 10 units in the Minneapolis area.</p>
<p>On October 22, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) announced the results of 174 Jimmy John’s employee ballots for unionization. The sandwich company held its breath; so, too, did many in the quick-service category. Unionization would spur sweeping changes in employment practices across the quick-service landscape, while a dominant anti-union vote would do much to silence organized labor’s efforts to break into the elusive quick-service base.</p>
<p>Although the Jimmy John’s measure was defeated—87 votes cast against the union, 85 for, and two ballots challenged—the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), the guiding force behind the Jimmy John’s unionization push, has vowed to continue the fight.</p>
<p>“Our goal is to bring working conditions in quick-service restaurants in line with standards of respect and dignity in other industries,” says Erik Forman, a Starbucks and Jimmy John’s employee who, as an IWW volunteer, actively organizes campaigns at both workplaces. “We think workers deserve decent wages, consistent scheduling, sick days, and increased job security. With the profit margins of most fast food chains, we feel these are reasonable demands.”</p>
<p>The IWW’s steadfast attitude—combined with the growing influence of social justice organizations that campaign for similar labor issues—presents a challenge to a quick-service industry still looking to rebound from the recession.</p>
<p><strong>A Checkered Past</strong></p>
<p>The first modern-day whiff of unionization in the quick-service ranks came in 2003, when Starbucks employees in New York City attempted to organize.</p>
<p>Although unions have been able to organize labor in other sectors of American society—civil-service employees, manufacturing, and education among them—infiltrating the quick-service industry has so far proved unattainable. A youthful workforce, transient employees, and new workers, including immigrants, unwilling to pay dues have all worked against organized labor’s efforts. So have smaller, isolated employment groups and the sheer time it takes for a union to get in, negotiate a contract, and deliver benefits for a notoriously high-turnover employment group.</p>
<p>Yet, quick-service restaurants possess some of the traditional elements that stir organized labor: low wages; few, if any, benefits; and a working environment that presents several dangers. Aaron Kocher of the IWW Starbucks Workers Union contends that the low pay and dangerous conditions in quick-service restaurants highlight the necessity of unions to protect workers’ rights.</p>
<p>“Some people have the idea that unions are necessary in some industries, but not in others,” he says. “This all comes down to workplace democracy and about giving workers a voice, as they should have a 100 percent expectation for being treated fairly and with respect and dignity.”</p>
<p>By and large, today’s organized labor groups have adopted a new approach. They’re taking to traditional media as well as social media, utilizing research and data to drum up favor, and inviting religious and educational institutions to work with them on protests and lobbying. They are, critics say, not averse to intimidation or skewing facts to their favor, eager to gain negotiating pull wherever and however necessary.</p>
<p>“These are not your great-grandparents’ unions of postal and textile workers,” says Carolyn Richmond, cochair of Fox Rothschild LLP’s Hospitality Practice Group in New York. “They’re following a different model and redefining organizing efforts for this century. They want bigger-picture reform rather than battles with specific restaurant groups.”</p>
<p>“You’ll see some decent theater, but the unions have simply failed to resonate with employees,” says Andrew Rolfes, a Philadelphia-based labor and employment attorney.</p>
<p>Despite unfavorable results, many workers and their union partners remain committed. Kocher says the IWW will continue to build on its successes and refine its model, perhaps inspiring new employee groups to emerge.</p>
<p>“We’re trying to set a new precedent. Starbucks was the spark showing it was possible and should be done,” says Ayo Collins, an IWW Jimmy John’s Workers Union member.</p>
<div class="pullout2">Quick serves possess some of the traditional elements that stir organized labor: low wages; few benefits; and a working environment that presents several dangers.</div>
<p>If unions were to infiltrate the quick-service ranks, the impact would be significant, particularly for mom and pop operations that would struggle to meet the wage and benefit demands of organized labor. While most operators want to provide positive employee relations in a safe working environment, any aggressive resistance would stem from the massive cost increases union laborers would require.</p>
<p>“You can’t force a business to stay in business if they can’t afford it,” Richmond says.</p>
<p><strong>What the Future Holds</strong></p>
<p>While Starbucks remains locked in a multiyear unionization battle and Jimmy John’s October vote was organized labor’s first close call in the quick-service arena, many say unions in this sector will continue to fall flat. Rolfes points to the influential Service Employees International Union’s reluctance to enter quick-service battles and falling union penetration across the country as noteworthy trends.</p>
<p>Still, efforts remain steadfast. The Jimmy John’s group continues to push its “ 10 Point Program for Justice at Jimmy John’s,” which features calls for immediate across-the-board pay raises, consistent scheduling, paid sick days, affordable health care, paid leave for new mothers and fathers, and the release of monthly financial reports.</p>
<p>“We’re all standing together with each other for the same things,” Collins says.</p>
<p>Collins says no business in the customer-service sector can be successful with unhappy, overworked, embattled employees. The union, he says, is necessary to facilitate a positive working environment.</p>
<p>The unions’ continued insistence means restaurants will have to be vigilant, although Collins says an industry-wide wave of unionization is not imminent.</p>
<p>“If you see one union get its foot in the door with a national chain, then you could see some movement, though I’m not convinced one victory will mean a greater tipping point,” he says.</p>
<p>To combat any union potential, Richmond encourages employers to self-audit their restaurants, checking diversity, wage and labor law adherence, and workplace safety conditions, while enhancing communication with employees.</p>
<p>“You want to make sure you don’t need third-party involvement, and a great first defense against such a campaign is to be in accordance with the law,” Richmond says. “Good employers who do right by their employees don’t need a third party.”</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-issuenum field-type-text field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">April 2011</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-teaser field-type-text-long field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><p>Labor unions have struggled to make quick-service inroads, but remain steadfast in their attempts to organize fast food employees.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://www.qsrmagazine.com/sites/qsrmagazine.com/files/styles/storyimage/public/store/not-so-perfect-union.jpg?itok=4g_lctrM" width="232" height="190" alt="Protesters in favor of employee unions picket a Jimmy John&#039;s in Minneapolis." title="Protesters in favor of employee unions picket a Jimmy John&#039;s in Minneapolis." /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-tio field-type-list-text field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Teaser Image Orientation:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even">Left</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-2 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Kicker:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/operations/store">In the Store</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-4 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Chains:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/chains/jimmy-johns">Jimmy John&#039;s</a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/category/chains/starbucks">Starbucks</a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-taxonomy-vocabulary-5 field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Authors:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/category/authors/daniel-p-smith">Daniel P. Smith</a></div></div></div>Mon, 25 Apr 2011 04:00:00 +0000shannon32016 at http://www.qsrmagazine.com